A shimmering ribbon of water cuts through the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. This is kenh Sang a vital artery of the city’s past and present. Kenh Sang isn’t just a canal it’s a living history book. Its waters have witnessed centuries of change. From a small fishing village to a bustling metropolis kenh Sang has been there.
Before 2000 kenh Sang’s waters flowed clean and clear. It was a source of life and sustenance. Then came rapid urbanization. Residential and industrial areas sprang up along its banks. Untreated wastewater poured into kenh Sang polluting its waters. The canal became a symbol of neglect. Flooding became a frequent occurrence. The once-pristine waterway turned dark and foul-smelling. The lives of over two million people living in the area were affected.
But kenh Sang’s story isn’t one of despair only. It’s also a tale of resilience and renewal. A massive project is underway. This project involves dredging the entire 32-kilometer waterway. This is three times longer than the Nhieu Loc-Thi Nghe Canal. That canal underwent a successful renovation about a decade ago. Kenh Sang’s width will be increased. It will be 30 meters wide in some sections. In other areas it will reach 40 meters. New roads will be built alongside the canal. These roads will be up to 12 meters wide. There will also be three new bridges and 12 wharves.
The restoration of kenh Sang is a major undertaking. The total cost is a staggering 8.2 trillion VND or 344.3 million USD. Half of this funding comes from the central government. The project is ambitious. It aims not only to improve drainage and reduce pollution. It also aims to enhance transport links. Kenh Sang will become a crucial part of the north-south transportation network. It will also revitalize waterway transport between the southeastern and southwestern provinces. Go Vap Park a 37-hectare green space along the canal shows the potential. This green space can absorb and retain floodwaters. The restoration of kenh Sang is more than just infrastructure. It’s about restoring the heart of the city. It’s a testament to the city’s determination to reclaim its heritage and build a brighter future. The completed project is expected in 2025. By then kenh Sang will once again shimmer. It will be a vibrant symbol of Ho Chi Minh City’s resilience and its promise for a cleaner healthier tomorrow.